Talking about mental illness can be a taboo subject in the church. People often shy away from what they don’t understand or deny that it even exists. Researchers in a study conducted by Baylor University found that more than 32 percent of Christian church members who approached their church for help with personal or family members diagnosed with a mental illness, were told by their pastor that they or their loved one did not really have a mental illness.

I believe that the church must take a holistic approach to how we serve our members. This is essential if we are to thrive as a church in the 21st century. While the focus of some churches is spiritual centeredness, a church’s concerns should also include the physical and mental well-being of its congregation. It is my prayer that we will be a congregation that strives to reduce stigma and promote a message of healing and recovery.